Innovating for Sustainability: Climate Tech Research

“Wavelet” Pulsed Power Technology Enabling Industrial-Scale Plasma-Catalytic Applications

Abstract: Daphne Technology's SlipPure^TM is a breakthrough technology designed to combat methane emissions from maritime and oil & gas industries. Methane, a persistent greenhouse gas, typically requires high temperatures for efficient abatement. SlipPure^TM can integrate both Non-Thermal Plasma (NTP) technology and specialised catalytic material in a novel system, achieving efficient methane conversion at lower temperatures.

However, generating the required high-voltage amplitude for NTP initiation is challenging. Daphne's Wavelet Pulse Power (WPP) power supply is a novel concept to address this. The WPP employs reactive power compensation, leverages resonance effects, and utilises robust duty-cycle control. This optimises power flow, improves methane conversion efficiency, and enables precise control of active power absorption by the system, accommodating varying exhaust conditions. SlipPure^TM, driven by a WPP power supply, promises substantial methane emission reduction in hard-to-decarbonise industries, offering environmental and economic benefits.

Published: September 2023, by Dr Dominik  Neumayr, Dr William Ramsay, and Dr Mario Michan.

Publication: “Wavelet” Pulsed Power Technology Enabling Industrial-Scale Plasma-Catalytic Applications

Maritime Energy Transition: Future Fuels & Future Emissions

Abstract: The lifecycle greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions (Well-to-Wake) from maritime transport must be reduced by at least 50% in absolute values by 2050 to contribute to the ambitions of the Paris Agreement (2015). A transition from conventional fuels to alternative fuels with zero or lower GHG emissions is viewed as the most promising avenue to reach the GHG reductions. Whereas GHG and toxic pollutants emitted from the use of fossil fuels (heavy fuel oil (HFO) and marine gas/diesel oil (MGO/MDO)) are generally well understood, the emissions associated with the new fuel options are only now being measured and communicated. This review provides an outlook on fuels that could help shipping respond to the decarbonization effort including Liquified Petroleum Gas (LPG), Liquified Natural Gas (LNG), methanol, ammonia, and hydrogen. A quantification of the pollutants associated from the use of these fuels is provided and challenges and barriers to their uptake are discussed. 

Published: April 2023, by Dr William Ramsay, Erik Fridell, and Dr Mario Michan.

The final publication is available at SpringerLink.com: 
Maritime Energy Transition: Future Fuels & Future Emissions

The third paper in the Onboard Vessel Solutions series:

Managing Emissions from Ammonia-Fueled Vessels - An overview of regulatory drivers, emission types, sources, scenarios, reduction technologies, and solutions

Abstract: The paper "Managing Emissions from Ammonia-Fueled Vessels" is part of a series of papers exploring the challenges and opportunities for sustainable shipping. Shipping accounts for a significant proportion of global emissions, and transitioning to zero-carbon fuels is essential. Ammonia has emerged as a promising fuel due to its high energy density and potential to be produced sustainably. Besides concerns about ammonia's toxicity, flammability, also emissions of nitrogen oxides (NO_x) and, in particular nitrous oxides (N₂O), which has a GWP of 256 over a 100-year period, must be addressed. This paper discusses various strategies to mitigate these emissions, such as developing new combustion technologies and implementing effective exhaust treatment systems. In addition, the authors highlight the importance of establishing regulations to support the safe use of ammonia as a fuel but also for emission regulations. This paper provides valuable insights for policymakers, industry stakeholders, and investors seeking to support the transition to zero-carbon shipping.

Published: March 3rd, 2023, by Maersk Mc-Kinney Moller Center for Zero Carbon Shipping.

Publication: Managing Emissions from Ammonia-Fueled Vessels

Sulphur Dioxide Reduction from Exhaust Gas via Ammonia Injection and Ammonium Sulphate Production

Abstract: The white paper discusses SulPure®, developed by Daphne Technology, which uses ammonia and water to remove sulphur dioxide emissions in exhaust or flue streams. The process produces ammonium sulphate as a by-product, which is collected via partial condensation of the water content in the exhaust gas. As a result, the SulPure® technology provides an efficient and environmentally-friendly solution for reducing sulphur dioxide emissions.

The study evaluated the efficiency and potential of SulPure® using a 1.5MW prototype installed on the exhaust outlet of a 700 kW marine diesel engine. The study demonstrates the effectiveness of SulPure® in reducing sulphur dioxide emissions and producing ammonium sulphate as a by-product.

The SulPure® technology is of interest to those seeking to reduce sulphur dioxide emissions and develop sustainable solutions. Implementing the SulPure® technology can help reduce the industry's environmental impact and contribute to the fight against climate change.

Published: December 16^th 2022, by Dr Steven Iglesias and Dr William Ramsay.

Publication: Sulphur Dioxide Reduction from Exhaust Gas via Ammonia Injection and Ammonium Sulphate Production

The second paper in the Onboard Vessel Solutions series:

Reducing Methane Emissions Onboard Vessels - An overview of regulatory drivers, methane emission sources and levels, reduction technologies and solutions, and techno-economics

Abstract: The paper series covers the impact and role of vessel greenhouse gas and air pollutant emission reduction in maturing alternative fuel pathways. The onboard impact is defined in terms of Tank-to-Wake global warming potential, with the role of onboard emission reduction either being for regulatory compliance or as an option to reduce emissions. Fuel pathway maturity assesses solution readiness across the entire value chain, including whether vessels, fuel production plants or bunkering vessels can be ordered without technical risk, at realistic price levels and with underlying regulation. Based on identified vessel emission risks, the paper series deep dives into specific emissions that need to be addressed to increase alternative fuel pathway maturity. These deep dives aim to understand current or potential emission levels, set reduction targets, and identify and map applicable technologies and solutions. Emission reduction potential is determined, and recommendations are given to mature the selected fuel pathways. Finally, areas or concepts for further research and development are identified, including recommended future project topics.

Published: October 10^th 2022, by Maersk Mc-Kinney Moller Center for Zero Carbon Shipping.

Publication: Reducing methane emissions onboard vessels

The first paper in the Onboard Vessel Solutions series:

Determining the Impact and Role of Onboard Vessel Emission Reduction

Abstract: Introducing the first paper in the Onboard Vessel Solutions series from Mærsk Mc-Kinney Møller Center for Zero Carbon Shipping, titled "Determining the Impact and Role of Onboard Vessel Emission Reduction." This collaborative effort between the Center and industry stakeholders delves into comprehensive analysis and research exploring the factors influencing onboard vessel emissions and assessing the potential of emission reduction solutions in the maritime sector. The paper emphasises the need for collaboration, innovation, and supportive policies to accelerate the adoption of emission-reduction technologies in the shipping industry. Furthermore, it serves as a valuable resource for industry stakeholders, policymakers, and researchers, offering insights into the challenges and opportunities associated with onboard vessel emission reduction.

Published: June 2022, by Maersk Mc-Kinney Moller Center for Zero Carbon Shipping.

Publication: Determining the Impact and Role of Onboard Vessel Emission Reduction

Report for pilot "Ammonia as Fuel"

Abstract: The utilisation of ammonia as a viable fuel option for the shipping industry is examined in this paper. Ammonia holds promise as a carbon-free alternative due to its high energy density and compatibility with existing propulsion systems. The document explores the environmental advantages of ammonia, including its potential to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and address air pollution concerns significantly. Challenges associated with adopting ammonia as a marine fuel are also addressed, such as storage and infrastructure requirements, safety considerations, and the need for international regulations and standards. Various strategies for ammonia production, including green and blue ammonia, and their potential economic and sustainability implications are discussed. The research concludes by highlighting the importance of collaboration between industry stakeholders, governments, and research institutions to overcome the challenges and facilitate the widespread adoption of ammonia as a fuel in the shipping sector. This report is made as a result of the pilot work carried out under Green Shipping Programme (GSP), where Daphne Technology was one of the participants.

Published: June 2022, by Green Shipping Programme.

Publication: Report for pilot "Ammonia as Fuel"

Aftertreatment of methane slip from marine gas engines

Abstract: Marine LNG engines have a slip of greenhouse gas methane into the atmosphere. For certain engine types, the slip is high. This report investigates possibilities to reduce the amount of slip released to the atmosphere by after-treatment the exhaust gas. We give an overview of the issue in the context of emission levels, engine trends and sustainability matters. A case study involving the installation of a catalyst on a tanker illustrates possibilities and costs.

Authors:

• Hulda Winnes and Erik Fridell (IVL)
• Joanne Ellis and Bjorn Forsman (SSPA)
• Dr William Ramsay and Henrik Westermark (Daphne Technology)

Published: October 14^th 2020, by Lighthouse.

Publication: Aftertreatment of methane slip from marine gas engines